EmpowerWell: Advancing Inclusive Healthcare and Wellness for the LGBTQ+ Community in Rhode Island
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:
To kick off Pride month, we will be having a panel conversation on “Advancing Inclusive Healthcare and Wellness for the LGBTQ+ Community in Rhode Island” and will explore the important topic of LGBTQ+ wellness within the workplace. Recognizing that holistic well-being goes beyond healthcare coverage, the event will delve into strategies for promoting mental, emotional, and social wellness among LGBTQ+ employees.
The panelists will share insights on fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture that embraces diversity and provides resources for LGBTQ+ individuals to thrive. They will discuss using the Human Rights Campaign Corporate Equality Index as a roadmap to creating an inclusive environment and leveraging inclusive employee assistance programs. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on implementing wellness initiatives that are sensitive to the unique needs and experiences of LGBTQ+ employees, ensuring their overall well-being is prioritized and nurtured.
By emphasizing the connection between healthcare benefits and wellness, this event aims to equip Rhode Island HR professionals with a comprehensive understanding of how inclusive policies and practices can positively impact the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals in their organizations. The panel discussion will foster a collaborative atmosphere, allowing attendees to exchange ideas, gain practical insights, and contribute to the ongoing efforts of promoting a workplace that values the holistic wellness of all employees, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
SCHEDULE:
Location: Virtual Via Zoom
This program has been submitted for HRCI and SHRM credits.
FACILITATOR:
Scott Gowrie, Corporate Social Responsibility Specialist, BCBS RI
Scott Gowrie (he/him) is a Corporate Social Responsibility Specialist at Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island. Scott leads the work of the Corporate Equality Index at BCBSRI, as well as the LGBTQ+ Safe Zone Program, which certifies care settings formally committed to LGBTQ+ inclusion with the goal of directing members toward inclusive care settings. Scott is also a member of Blue pRIde, BCBSRI’s LGBTQ+ focused EBRG, and the chair of the Disability Inclusion Network EBRG. As a gay man, Scott is personally passionate about inclusion and equity within organizations for all, and has a particular focus on LGBTQ+ inclusion and equity in the workplace. Scott is a board member for Youth Pride, Inc., an organization dedicated to meeting the unique needs of LGBTQIA+ youth in Rhode Island.
Alex Pastor, Finance Rotation Program and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program Manager, IGT
Alex is a Finance Rotation Program and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program Manager at International Gaming Technology (IGT). Alex is known for providing critical and timely support to the team and her community. She is known for her sense of calmness and confidence in her work, making others feel at ease. In addition to her DE&I work at IGT, she also manages the company's finance rotation program, supporting employees early in their career.
Alex also supports the RI Society for Human Resources Management as a Projects Administrator. She also works with the Women’s Fund of Rhode Island and Youth Pride Inc. and volunteers with Amos House. Alex was recently appointed to the town of Barrington’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee.
Alex is a native of Long Island, New York and currently resides in Barrington with her partner, Ben, and their family. Alex spends her free time practicing yoga, cross stitching, and gardening.
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RI SHRM PROGRAMS
Thank you to our Event Sponsor!
